Frequently Asked QuestionsWhere do your members come from?We come from many different communities, from Toledo to Dearborn.Does it cost money to be a member?Yes, monthly dues are collected to help pay for our director, music, costumes, coaching, etc.Do you meet all year long? Yes, but we do take a week or two off during Christmas/New Year.Is there a place for a voice like mine?Yes, if you can carry a tune accurately. Barbershop harmony consists of 4 different voice parts. One part is likely to be in your voice range.Who are your members?None of us are professional singers. We are nurses, teachers, clerks, students, housewives, widows, therapists, hygienists, retirees --- you name it!What is a rehearsal like?We get on the risers and do warm-ups, practice some aspect of vocal production, learn new music and rehearse the current repertoire. All through this process there seems to be plenty of time to laugh!Do I have to know how to read music?No. A tape recorder or digital recorder is highly recommended. Learning CDs are available for some songs.Must I have prior choir of chorus experience?No. It is helpful, but not necessary.What kind of music do you sing?Songs as far back as the 1800s and as new as current popular music are all fair game! We sing many genres including spirituals, show tunes, popular music, swing, patriotic, etc.Are there age limits for joining?No, though if you are under 18, you will need an appointed chaperone for traveling to contest or educational weekends.Where do you perform?We perform throughout the Monroe, Toledo and Downriver areas. We perform for both private and community functions.Will I need to audition?No. We will listen to you and give you feedback on whether you are able to succeed at what we do. Prospective members are considered by the Music Team and Board, then voted on by the membership if the Music Team and Board have approved the candidate.Are there attendance requirements?You are expected to attend each rehearsal on time and prepared. Of course, health, vacations and job requirements are taken into consideration. There may be tighter attendance requirements before contest or before the annual show in order to qualify to participate.What if I find that I must miss several rehearsals?It will be your responsibility to get in touch with your section leader to find out what you have missed, and what you can do to keep up with the rest of the chorus. If you need a lengthy absence, you can request a Leave of Absence.How much time does Sweet Adelines take?Involvement in areas such as administration, costuming, and show production are voluntary. However, in addition to regular rehearsals you must also be willing to commit time for personal preparation of music, for performances, for contest, and for the annual show. It does take time, but we believe that hard work results in a quality singing organization.